16 neglected animals seized from deaf ranch

NEW RIVER, Ariz. (KSAZ) - Officials with the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office announced Thursday afternoon that investigators with its Animal Crimes Unit seized 16 neglected animals from a youth rehabilitation facility in New River.

According to a statement, the animals, found on the Remington Deaf Ranch on the 48000 block of N. 31st Avenue, were turned over to MCSO by their owner, Dan Remington, and the actions followed neighbor's complaints of observing animals in terrible conditions, without food and water.

Eight horses, one baby horse, one miniatury donkey, five adult dogs, and one puppy have reportedly been seized, and all are in emergency veterinarian care.

Also found on the ranch, according to the statement, were three male teenagers that officials believe to be from Ethiopia, and appeared to be working the property, and attending to the animals.

The teens, according to the statement, showed no sign of physical abuse, but there are unanswered questions as to how the teens came to reside at the ranch, which is reportedly not licensed with the State of Arizona. DCS, according to the statement, has opened an inquiry into the children's welfare.

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Officials note, however that the investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made. Remington reportedly told detectives that he did not have money for a veterinarian to treat the animals.

The ranch, according to the statement, claims to have been operating since 2000, and reportedly offers help for deaf youths on drugs or alcohol.